"My son was on the children’s ward. ..."

My son was on the children’s ward. He waited 18 hours for surgery with an open laceration to his leg. It was only after he was in the bed overnight that my mother noticed all the dirt and a pool of dried blood under the bed. I was horrified as my sons wound was only covered with an iodine soaked swab. This was not my son’s blood. I showed the nurse who had the good grace to look shocked & apologise. She got a cleaner who looked at it and said I'll get to it when we finish the other end of the ward. When I took out my camera and took photos they decided it was worth cleaning immediately. I have the photos for anyone who wishes to see them. I appreciate all the medical care my son received; although it was obvious the staff were struggling, delays, lack of information etc.

But seeing the filth under his bed was the most appalling thing I have ever encountered in any hospital. We are all very aware of the risks dirty wards create.

If it had not been for this I would have praised the hospital for the kindness of it’s nursing staff who have all my sympathy as they try to cope as best they can. However I think the cleaning staff have no excuses and should be ashamed of them selves.

What could be improved

waiting time and cleanliness.

Anything else?

My son is recovering, but for several weeks I was worried sick he could have got an infection.